Mandela boosts Zuma

April 20, 2009|By Robyn Dixon, Tribune Newspapers

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — Nelson Mandela's hobbling steps up to the stage at an African National Congress election rally Sunday were painfully slow, but they were a powerful political boost to president-in-waiting Jacob Zuma.

The crowd at the ANC's final rally before general elections Wednesday were ecstatic when Mandela -- known here as Madiba -- made an unannounced visit, circling the Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg in a golf cart beside Zuma.

The former president's beaming face was a handsome endorsement for Zuma, whose campaign has been hampered by charges of corruption, fraud and racketeering.

Prosecutors dropped charges almost two weeks ago, citing outside interference over the timing of charges. But they made it clear that the prosecution team had a strong case on the corruption charges.

Zuma has denied that the charges have left a cloud over him, but that claim had more traction after Mandela's endorsement. Zuma told the crowd that Mandela, 90, had not been pressured to attend.

"Let me clarify this issue for those who are very fond of commenting about things," Zuma said. He said Mandela asked to appear with him at Sunday's "We are winning" rally and at a February gathering in Eastern Cape.

The assertion was aimed at critics who have accused the Zuma camp of using the ANC's elder statesman for electoral gain. Mandela rarely enters the political fray and concentrates mainly on charitable work.

Mandela did not speak, but his brief recorded message said the role of the ANC was to fight poverty and build an inclusive, nonracial society.

Zuma's speech offered promises of a better life without touching on costs or other details. He promised improvements in education and health and to reduce crime.

Beyond the promises of a better life, Zuma hinted at retribution against judges and the media. He said the judiciary and media must be "transformed," a hint that they were either white-dominated or racist. In South Africa, such transformation policies generally aim to eradicate racism and empower blacks.